Leadership Begins with the Right Leadership Style
Not all team members require the same leadership approach.
Some people need clear direction, others need encouragement and others need autonomy and trust
Ken Blanchard's situational leadership model reminds us that effective leaders adjust their style based on the competence (skills) and commit...
by Jon Close —
May 25, 2026
people
Focus on What You Can Control
Leaders lose valuable time when they focus on circumstances outside their control.
In No Ego, Cy Wakeman reminds us that leadership influence grows when we stop resisting reality and begin working productively within it. In my work with leaders, I translate this into a simple discipline: notice r...
by Jon Close —
May 18, 2026
control
Leadership Multiplies Through People
Leadership is not measured by how much we accomplish personally.
It is measured by how many leaders we develop.
Many leaders unintentionally limit their influence because they try to do everything themselves. While that may produce short-term efficiency, it restricts long-term growth.
John C. M...
by Jon Close —
May 11, 2026
people
Choosing the Right Leadership Style
Effective leaders do not rely on one leadership style. They adjust their approach based on the competence and commitment of each person and each situation.
Leadership expert Dr. Ken Blanchard's situational leadership model describes four (4) core styles:
Directing - High direction, low support, ...
by Jon Close —
May 04, 2026
competence
Detach from Emotional Waste
One of the hidden drains on leadership effectiveness is emotional waste.
Emotional waste occurs when leaders spend energy on things that do not move the work forward-complaining, resisting reality, replaying past frustrations, or worrying about circumstances outside of their control.
In No Ego, ...
by Jon Close —
Apr 27, 2026
emotional
See Potential Before Others Do
One of the greatest responsibilities of a leader is seeing what others cannot yet see in themselves.
Many people underestimate their own leadership ability. They focus on their limitations rather than their potential. A leader’s role is to help people recognize the gifts, strengths, and capabilit...
by Jon Close —
Apr 20, 2026
believe
Develop People, Don't Create Denpendence
The goal of leadership is not control—it’s development.
Situational leaders resist the trap of doing too much for others. Instead, they intentionally move people toward greater competence and confidence.
If your're always stepping in, you may be slowing growth.
This Week's Practice
Ask yoursel...
by Jon Close —
Apr 13, 2026
develop
Match Your Style to the Moment
One leadershp style does not fit every situation.
Effective leaders adjust their approach based on the competence and commitment of the person they’re leading. Situational Leadership reminds us that influence increases when direction and support are aligned with real needs—not assumptions.
Lead...
by Jon Close —
Apr 06, 2026
commitment
confidence
moment
Anchor to Purpose
When pressure rises, purpose steadies leadership.
Without a clear “why,” leaders drift into reaction mode. Purpose brings alignment, focus, and resilience—especially when decisions are difficult.
As John C. Maxwell reminds us, “A leader is one who knows the way, shows the way, and goes the way.”...
by Jon Close —
Mar 30, 2026
purpose
Lead with Calm Under Pressure
Pressure doesn’t create character—it reveals it.
In uncertain moments, teams take their cues from the leader’s tone, pace, and presence. Calm leadership stabilizes thinking and restores focus.
As Viktor Frankl observed, meaning and choice exist even in difficult circumstances. Leaders choose the...
by Jon Close —
Mar 23, 2026
pressure
Navigate Conflict Productively
Conflict is not the problem—avoidance is.
Healthy teams experience tension. Purposeful leaders don’t eliminate conflict; they channel it toward better thinking and stronger decisions.
As Patrick Lencioni teaches, productive conflict is a hallmark of trust. When leaders address issues early and d...
by Jon Close —
Mar 16, 2026
conflict
Own the Moment
Leadership is responsibility—not preference.
When challenges arise, teams look first to the leader—not for answers, but for ownership. Avoidance, delay, or deflection weakens trust quickly.
As John C. Maxwell reminds us, leaders don’t wait for perfect conditions—they step forward.
This Week's P...
by Jon Close —
Mar 09, 2026
responsibility
Lead on Purpose Tips